Convicted Supreme Court Justice Melvin Resigns

Pennsylvania Supreme Court Justice Joan Orie Melvin, who was convicted last month of utilizing her office’s staff for campaign work, has resigned from the high court.

In making her announcement in a letter her attorneys released to Governor Tom Corbett on Monday, Republican Melvin also said she intends to appeal her verdict.

Melvin and her sister, Janine Orie, who served as the justice’s aide, were convicted of the misuse of taxpayer-paid staff members, theft of services, misappropriation of state property and conspiracy. Melvin was acquitted on a charge of official oppression.

Melvin’s resignation leaves the state’s highest court with three Republicans and three Democrats. The Republican Governor may nominate someone to serve her term until an election is held for someone to fill a 10-year term.